A new generation of mutants is emerging, that much is certain. They will be called freaks. Genetic monstrosities. [...] But they are emerging in the inner cities, in the suburbs, in the deserts and the jungles. And when they emerge, they will need teachers, people who can help them overcome their anger and show them how to use their strange gifts responsibly. They will need us.

In Sydney, Australia, Cyclops and Wolverine rescue a mutant known as Ugly John from a residual sentinel attack. On their way home in the X-Wing, they are connected to a telepathic conference by the Professor. He tells them that the all new mutant detector, Cerebra, has located an enormous mutant surge in Ecuador. The Professor asks them to make a quick turn and investigate the anomaly. Meanwhile, Beast presents Jean Grey with his advanced sub-basement clinic. She brings her worry over Charles to her teammate's attention but is suddenly distracted by a telepathic disturbance. Jean rushes to Cerebra, where she finds the Professor battling for dominance over his mind. The ordeal leaves Charles distraught and weakened.

At the same time, Cassandra Nova brings the mild-mannered dentist, Donald Trask into a virtual reality simulation of the early evolution of the human race. She explains that within four generations Homo Sapiens Sapiens will soon be extinct; to be replaced by Homo Sapiens Superior (mutants). (See Extinction Gene.) Back in reality, she brings him to a hidden Master Mold factory unit in the Ecuadorian drill. There they are accommodated by Wild Sentinels but the androids do not attack them because they recognize Donald's "Trask DNA." Cassandra says Trask's future now lies in genocide.

Notes

Part 1 of 3 (story arc).

First issue written by Grant Morrison. This and the following issues have the title changed from "X-Men" to "New X-Men". Not to be confused with the students of the Academy X also called New X-Men.